What are the relative roles in NZ of the Police and the Crown Prosecutors in deciding whether a prosecution should proceed in indicatable cases? Is that one of the things the Crown Prosecutors are supposed to do? (Questions asked here by someone who cheerfully admits complete ignorance about these things). Presumably in summary offences it is solely the Police who decide whether or not charges are laid, but is the CP a gatekeeper for more serious criminal offences? In a really major case, does the Solicitor-General also fulfil this role?

“It is a truth universally acknowledged whereas in an unlawful action of fhe state coupled with a Prime Minister who suffers from brain fade and a lack of a good mental facility, then it must surely follow an inquiry is warranted.”

Asked about the possibility of earlier spying, a spokeswoman said the Prime Minister had sought and received "a fresh assurance" the GCSB and Security Intelligence Service had not carried out any surveillance before December 16.

Green co-leader Russel Norman said it could not be ruled out.

He said a commission of inquiry was needed to examine the behaviour of the GCSB.

He said it could be conducted in secrecy with sensitive material excised from a final public report.

Mr Norman highlighted the Echelon of Five Eyes agreement where the GCSB worked with intelligence agencies from the US, Australia, Canada and the UK.